THE Oldham community united as hundreds of lights were illuminated at the local hospice’s Light Up a Life service.
The annual event at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice gives people the opportunity to remember loved ones, whether they have received care at the hospice or not.
Over £33,500 was raised through dedications, donations and the sale of baubles – a figure the Royton-based hospice says will “make a huge difference”.
The funds will now go towards care for patients with life-limiting illnesses, as well as supporting their families, friends and carers.
During the recent outdoor service, a large crowd enjoyed a selection of live musical performances and readings. A dedication tree, donated by Oldham Council, was also lit up during a moment of silence.
Adele Doherty, CEO of Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “As we light our tree, each light shines as a reminder of loved ones and the cherished memories we hold.
“Light Up a Life is an opportunity to remember our loved ones with warmth and positivity.
“Attendees are also contributing to the vital work we do, ensuring that others can experience comfort and dignity in their final days.”
The multifaith service included musical performances by Crompton House Brass Band, Dr Kershaw’s Hospice Choir and St Joseph’s RC Junior Infant and Nursery School.
Spoken performances included Hindu and Muslim readings by Oldham Interfaith Forum.
Dr Patricia Campbell, from Dr Kershaw’s clinical team, also read the poem ‘Do Not Stand at my Grave and Weep’, which includes the line ‘I am the soft stars that shine at night.’
Inside the hospice, the 1,208 dedicated names were added to the Light Up a Life Book of Remembrance and displayed on-screen in the reception. A team of volunteers also hand-wrote dedications on paper stars, which were hung on Christmas trees.
Alice Entwistle, Fundraising Events Lead at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “We would like to say a massive thank you to each and every person who braved the rain to attend our Light Up a Life service. It was so wonderful to see so many people join together to remember and celebrate their loved ones.
“We are grateful to everyone who made it possible, especially our sponsor, Roma, and all of our participants, including our amazing clinical team.
“With your support, we can continue to make a difference in the Oldham community.”
People who were unable to attend can now watch online via the hospice’s Facebook and YouTube channels at @drkershawshospice.
Free copies of the Book of Remembrance are also available at reception, The Furniture Hub and the hospice’s shops in Lees, Royton and Shaw.
People can make a donation to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice in memory of their loved ones at www.drkh.org.uk/donate